Mopar Dodge Ram 1500 4x4 Ramrunner - Mopar's New Raptor Killer?

After hearing about what was going to show up in Moab, we were very excited to see what Chrysler would come up with from a half-ton. We had heard a rumor that it was going to be the go-fast answer to Ford's Raptor.

This new Ramrunner was the result of a collaboration between Mopar Performance and KORE suspension to come up with something that would not only wow upon sight but also perform when rough terrain is thrown at it.

So?!... Is it better?!

Better than what? Oh, the Raptor? Well, we're not sure it is quite yet, but you be the judge after checking out what very well could be the prototype that will inspire a Raptor killer. And depending on whom you ask, this new Ram might already be a better option than a Raptor for some customers. It does have bigger internal bypass coilovers, more inches of travel, rear link suspension, and more power packed under the hood than in a current Raptor package. But Mopar's Ramrunner is missing one key thing that we think, by itself (after taking away all the fancy body panels and suspension) makes Ford's Raptor package more than worth the $3,600 option: The "off-road" mode button on the dash that overrides all the computer-controlled electronic babysitters and sets the engine and transmission for optimum performance. When we asked Mopar about any off-road computer tuning, they quickly volunteered that there is an ESP-off button in all Ram 1500 4x4s that shuts down the traction control that can become pesky in slippery dirt conditions.

With the Mopar-KORE long-travel suspension, there is certainly enough travel or some hardcore prerunning. But if you're simply looking for a better ride and improved performance for mild off-roading, then Mopar also has a mid-travel prerunner suspension as well.

So if the Ramrunner has the suspension and the power (and the good looks), while the Raptor has the computer control overrides, which one do you choose? Well, really, it's up to you and your needs. In fact it will probably come down to brand loyalty for most customers. But one very important distinction, good or bad, separates the Ramrunner and the Raptor: the Ramrunner is made of Mopar-available aftermarket components, while the Raptor can only be had pre-built straight from the factory.